DIRECTV and HISTORY announced that they are taking viewers on a 3D tour of the solar system.
According to the statement, beginning Friday, July 30, HISTORY will deliver its first 3D broadcast on DIRECTV’s new 3D channel, n3D powered by Panasonic, with the season 5 premiere episode of its series, THE UNIVERSE. On the same day, DIRECTV will also offer a 2D version of this episode on The 101 Network.
The season 5 premiere of THE UNIVERSE, titled 7 WONDERS OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM, uses CGI graphics to visualize recent findings from the latest space probes, offering astonishing insight into the greatest marvels of the universe, including mountain ranges on Saturn’s rings; the famous red spot on Jupiter and the indication that there may soon be another one; a volcano that would stretch the distance between Los Angeles and San Francisco if it was placed on Earth; and the highest resolution images ever taken of the lava flow on Mars that might indicate volcanic activity.
DIRECTV will air THE UNIVERSE’S 7 WONDERS OF THE SOLAR SYSTEM in 3D on n3D powered by Panasonic (Channel 103) and in 2D on The 101 Network (Channel 101) on Friday, July 30 at 10 p.m. ET/PT.
“Offering this programming in 3D will enable our viewers to completely immerse their senses in the unchartered landscape that makes up our solar system,” said Derek Chang, executive vice president of Content Strategy and Development for DIRECTV. “This is the type of programming that lends itself perfectly for 3D and still looks amazing in HD. We are excited to be partnering with HISTORY as they embark on their first 3D mission and look forward to continuing to deliver compelling 3D content to our viewers.”
“This is a great opportunity for HISTORY to partner with DIRECTV to showcase our hit series THE UNIVERSE in 3D,” said David Zagin executive vice president of Distribution for AETN.” The 3D experience greatly enhances the graphics of THE UNIVERSE and adds an exciting new element to HISTORY’s programming. We are excited to provide our viewers with the opportunity to watch this program in 3D.”
n3D powered by Panasonic is now available at no additional cost to millions of DIRECTV HD customers. In addition to 3D events such as the 2010 MLB All-Star Game and the NASCAR Coke Zero 400 race, which aired earlier this month, n3D customers will also have access to ESPN’s 3D coverage of the Summer X Games 16 and exclusive, original 3D programming such as Guitar Center Sessions with Peter Gabriel and Jane’s Addiction.
DIRECTV also offers DIRECTV Cinema in 3D on channel 104, which is currently airing IMAX titles Deep Sea 3D and Under the Sea 3D and n3D On Demand on channel 105, which is currently delivering replays of ESPN’s 3D coverage of the 2010 FIFA World Cup matches. DIRECTV also launched ESPN 3D on channel 106 on June 11.
Last month, DIRECTV HD customers received a free software upgrade enabling them to have access to the 3D channels on DIRECTV. DIRECTV HD customers will need a 3D television set and 3D glasses to view 3D programming on DIRECTV.
For more information visit: www.directv.com